Despite Huge Economic Boost, Seattle Mayor Wants Moratorium on Data Centers in City

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is advocating for a moratorium on new data center developments within the city, citing concerns over environmental justice, economic resilience, and potential cost increases for Seattle ratepayers. Despite data centers contributing significantly to Washington state's economy, employing over 47,000 people and generating $1.8 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2023, Mayor Wilson has called for a report to explore this ban, specifically to prevent data centers from being built inside city limits. The push for a moratorium follows reports that Seattle Power and Light had been approached by four companies intending to build five large data centers. These proposed facilities would require substantial energy, estimated to power a third of Seattle during peak consumption. While one company has withdrawn its interest, Prologis, Equinix, and Sabey are still considering formal applications. The article critically notes that the mayor's concerns about energy costs might overlook the underlying issues of existing city regulations and policies, such as mandated electrification for new buildings, which are already straining the power grid. The three remaining data companies have not yet committed to submitting applications, and the city's opposition could prompt them to seek alternative locations outside Seattle.